Advancing Cancer Control in Rift Valley | Baringo County Engagement

Baringo County – 15th May 2025

The National Cancer Institute of Kenya, through the Rift Valley Regional Team Lead, Ms. Linet Koskei, held an engagement meeting in Baringo County to assess progress and foster collaboration in strengthening cancer prevention and control efforts.

Ms. Koskei met with Hon. Eng. Felix Maiyo, Deputy Governor of Baringo County; Hon. Josphat Lokorio, Member of the County Assembly and Chair of the Health Committee; Nancy Chesire, Chief Officer for Health; Dr. Gerishon Abakalwa, Acting Director of Medical Services and Medical Superintendent; Dr. Timothy Amgee, NCD Coordinator; and members of the County Health Management Team (CHMT).

The discussion centered on evaluating the county’s strides in cancer prevention and early detection, assessing the capacity of healthcare facilities to deliver imaging, pathology, and laboratory services, and reviewing the availability of cancer treatment, palliative care, and survivorship support. The meeting also addressed the current status of advocacy, partnerships, coordination, and financing mechanisms, while reflecting on the role of strategic information, cancer registration, and research in driving evidence-based interventions.

During the meeting, Ms. Linet Koskei emphasized the importance of counties setting aside specific budgetary allocations to tackle and support the fight against cancer, noting that dedicated funding is critical in scaling up sustainable and impactful interventions at the grassroots level.

NCI-K believes these shared commitments between NCI-K and the County Governments brings comprehensive, high-quality, and community-responsive cancer services closer to the people. It also figures the importance of aligning local efforts with the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023–2027, ensuring that interventions are guided by the five strategic pillars to effectively reduce the cancer burden across the region.

Together, we are building a future where every Kenyan has access to timely and equitable cancer care, from prevention to survivorship.